NAME

SYNOPSIS

DESCRIPTION

OpenBVE is a realistic rail simulator.
The driving simulation is restricted to following a pre-determined
loaded route, with the focus being on the realism of the train driving
experience. OpenBVE also has an Arcade mode where driving style and
timetable-keeping affect a running score.
The simulator is backwards compatible with existing 'BVE Trainsim'
route and train datafiles, which are readily available for no cost. It
is cross-platform using CLI and Mono.

GETTINGSTARTED

To move the train, you need to do the following (with the default
keyboard settings):
f Move the reverser to the forwards position. (Opposite is v).
, Release the brake one notch; will be required 4-8 times before
movement. (Opposite is .).
z Increase the regulator (power) one notch; may be required 1-2 times
before movement. (Opposite is q).
The major controls keys are arranged closely together q-a-z for power
control; ,-. (comma and full-stop) for braking and f-v for
forwards/backwards direction. Some electric trains have a combined
accelerator+brake with a coast (neutral) in the centre. This is
controlled with just the q-a-z combination (and forwards/backwards).
Pressing the a key moves the controller one notch closer to the
coast/idle positioh, regardless of whether in power or braking mode.
Return/Shift-Return operate the horn. Keys F1-F5 select alternative
camera angles. C-r unlocks the camera to allow free movement (r to
reset). A large number of other keys exist for interacting with
complex signalling systems and operating the passenger doors whilst in
a station. Most routes have a supplied timetable that can be displayed
by pressing C-t.

LAPTOPS

For laptops/notebooks, there is an alternate keyboard mapping (called
"Default keyboard assignment for Notebooks.controls"), which can be
imported via the CustomiseControls tab. The basic keys are the same,
but camera controls are moved off the numeric keypad.

OPTIONS

/controls
Show Customise Controls screen; keyboard/mouse/joystick
selection.
/newgame
Show Filemanager/route selector screen; choose activity
(default).
/options
Show Options screen; display and quality settings.
/review
Show Review performance; score and incident log from previous
activity.
/route=someroute.csv
Path to the file with the route file ending .csv or .rw which
describes the track, scenery and time-table.
/train=train.dat
A train/cab. This should be a path to the directory, which
contains the train.dat description for the locomotive, train or
cab.

DATAFILES

Two elements are required, a route, and a train (often just a cab view
and performance metrics). These can be selected using the filemanager
after OpenBVE is started. Most routes have a corresponding recommended
train (for instance a particular model of Tube train on the London
Underground); if this train is located it will be selected by default.